Québec City's Carnaval de Québec is a must-attend event that dates back to 1955! This wintertime festival, which takes place in Old Québec from February 7-16, is a major driving force in Québec’s winter life. The festival celebrates culture, wintertime sports and activities, and all things food and drink.
The festival’s mascot, Bonhomme Carnaval, is the uncontested master of celebrations and king of the festivities. Bonhomme wears a red tuque and an arrow sash, a traditional piece of Québecois clothing that dates back to the 17th century. Bonhomme lives in an Ice Palace that is made entirely of ice and open to visitors.
Like Bonhomme, the festival itself is a perfect blend of history and fun, where people come together to embrace the weather and enjoy the short and cold days. Today, we’re sharing 3 essential foodie stops on the festival grounds, so you can warm up with tasty bites and interesting drinks between activities. Let’s get started!
At the Loto-Québec Zone
Located just steps from Bonhomme's Ice Palace in the Loto-Québec Zone, the all-new SAQ Space will dazzle you with its electrifying ambiance. This space includes the heated SAQ Bistro and the SAQ Ice Bar, featuring a DJ to keep the energy high.
You’ll also find Cantine Genco, offering a variety of meals and snacks for every taste, including their mouthwatering maple-glazed bacon poutine.
For the musical evenings at the Loto-Québec Stage, the La Souche Drink Station and the brand-new Ice Bar, complete with ice luges, will be ready to ensure a festive night! From this area, you’ll also have easy access to the Genco Counter to satisfy your late-night cravings.
At the Kraft Jukebox
A major new feature for the 71st edition of the Carnival, the Kraft Jukebox is a festive, dynamic, extravagant, and immersive site. A musical venue that will make you dance, sing, and perform to the sound of the greatest musical classics in a scenographic universe inspired by a giant open-air Jukebox.
At the Atypique Ice Bar, you’ll find both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options to ensure you have a great time at the Carnival. This bar pulses to the intoxicating rhythms of the site’s various animations.
Take the opportunity to discover the surprising menu at the Kraft Stop, where you can taste the famous Kraft Dinner poutine or enjoy this guilty pleasure in the form of melting croquettes. A guaranteed favorite!
At the Scotiabank Sculpture Garden
The Scotiabank Sculpture Garden site is a beautiful place where the Quebec winter comes to life through ephemeral works of art. The centrepiece of this enchanting site surrounded by snow and ice sculptures is the Coureur des Bois Ice Bar, a wooden cabin with decor inspired by the boreal forest.
The La Souche Shack will also offer you a rustic and comforting experience, with its heated area providing various animations and activities throughout the Carnival. Lastly, don’t forget to taste the maple taffy from La Bûche Sugar Shack, and you can also purchase other local maple products.
Plan your next visit to Québec City
When it comes to enjoying the Carnaval de Québec, the possibilities are endless! Click here to see the full list of activities and performances.
Ready to plan your own trip to Québec City? Check out our planning tips!
All photos via Carnaval de Québec
